The new iPhone could be at least 1.4mm thinner thanks to its new display.

In an effort to make its sixth-generation iPhone slimmer than previous models, Apple will reportedly introduce a new display that features clever “in-cell” touch technology that allows it to become significantly thinner than existing iPhone displays by negating the need for a dedicated digitizer. According to sources for TheWall Street Journal, mass production of these displays has already begun.

Apple Inc.’s next iPhone, currently being manufactured by Asian component makers, will use a new technology that makes the smartphone’s screen thinner, people familiar with the matter said, as the U.S. technology giant strives to improve technological features amid intensifying competition from Samsung Electronics Co. and other rivals.

Japanese liquid-crystal-display makers Sharp Corp. and Japan Display Inc.—a new company that combined three Japanese electronics makers’ display units—as well as South Korea’s LG Display Co. are currently mass producing panels for the next iPhone using so-called in-cell technology, the people said.

In-cell technology integrates touch sensors into the LCD itself, allowing Apple to do away with a separate digitizer and make the display significantly thinner. In addition to cutting down on thickness, the technology will also improve the display’s image quality, and help Apple cut down on costs as it eliminates the extra component and its suppliers.